Refreshing DIY Summer Treats to Keep Your Pets Cool and Happy

As the summer months bring sunny skies and warm weather, it’s a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors with your pets. However, rising temperatures call for extra measures to ensure their comfort and hydration. Whether your dog is frolicking in the garden or your cat is lounging in a sunlit spot, keeping them cool is crucial for their health and happiness. At Yarra Valley Pet Resort, we prioritise the well-being of your furry companions. To help you beat the heat, we’ve compiled some easy and nutritious treat recipes your pets will love—ideal for home or during their stay with us.

DIY Summer Pet Treat Recipes

Peanut Butter and Banana Frozen Bites

Treat your dog to a tasty and healthy snack with these frozen bites. Bananas are rich in vitamins, and xylitol-free peanut butter provides a nutritious protein boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons xylitol-free peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana into a smooth consistency.
2. Add the peanut butter and yoghurt, mixing well.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze for several hours.

Pineapple and Coconut Coolers

These tropical delights are suitable for both cats and dogs. Pineapple adds vitamins, and coconut water is a natural hydrator.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 1 cup coconut water

Instructions:

1. Blend the pineapple and coconut water until smooth.
2. Pour the blend into an ice cube tray and freeze.

Savoury Beef Broth Ice Cubes

Perfect for dogs who prefer savoury snacks, these icy cubes are both hydrating and flavourful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine the broth with water in a bowl.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.

Berry Yoghurt Chillers

Bursting with antioxidants and probiotics, these chillers are a nutritious choice for both cats and dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
• ½ cup diced fresh strawberries

Instructions:

1. Blend the yoghurt and strawberries until smooth.
2. Transfer the mixture into small moulds or an ice cube tray and freeze.

Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Pops

These sweet and nutritious pops are packed with digestive benefits from pumpkin and nutrients from coconut milk.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened canned pumpkin
• 1 cup coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Blend the pumpkin and coconut milk until creamy.
2. Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.

Tuna and Catnip Ice Treats (Cat Favourite!)

Delight your feline friend with these icy treats, combining tuna’s savoury taste with a sprinkle of catnip.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna in water
• A pinch of dried catnip

Instructions:

1. Blend the tuna and catnip into a paste.
2. Divide into ice cube trays and freeze.

Apple and Peanut Butter Sandwiches

This fun, hydrating treat is perfect for dogs, combining crunchy apples with creamy peanut butter.

Ingredients:

• 2 apples (cored and sliced into rings)
• Xylitol-free peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Spread peanut butter between two apple slices to form a sandwich.
2. Lay them on a tray and freeze.

Keeping Cool at Yarra Valley Pet Resort

While these homemade treats are fantastic for your pets at home, you can rest assured that when they stay at Yarra Valley Pet Resort, their comfort is our top priority. We provide refreshing snacks, air-conditioned facilities, and attentive care to ensure they remain relaxed and happy during warm weather.

Plan your pet’s stay with us and enjoy peace of mind knowing they’ll receive exceptional care. Contact us today to book their summer getaway!